'Relation spéciale'

Ribéry fired up for tenth year at Bayern

Created on 28-07-2016 at 00:30 AM

Bayern's number seven is ever-present these days, both on and off the pitch: Franck Ribéry wears his squad number on his head. His son came up with the idea, explained the Frenchman, who has been brimming with verve ever since the start of pre-season. “I'm feeling very good. I'm happy. It's my tenth year at Bayern. We have a relation spéciale,” commented Ribéry.

A very special relationship between the winger and coach Carlo Ancelotti seems imminent indeed. “He's a great coach with lots of experience. He's won many titles and worked with many big players. He knows how to handle them,” Ribéry commented on his first impressions. “He's really cool and relaxed, it's nice.”

At 33 years of age the French ace is anything but tired: “I've won everything with Bayern, but I'm always hungry. I'm always motivated, every season.” Ribéry acts accordingly in training. He hopes he can complete an entire preparation period with the squad for the first time since the winter of 2014/15. “My priority is getting fit, recapturing my form and not sustaining any injuries.” Ribéry is fired up for his tenth year wearing Bayern's number seven shirt, the number shaved into his hair.